Summer is a time for fun and relaxation… and for many, severe storms. The thundershowers and high winds that characterize severe summer weather can wreak havoc on your home, particularly if your rain gutters aren’t up to the task of channeling water away from your roof and siding. I'll admit, that in Northern Israel we do not have rain in the summer, but since our summer travels often take us to areas that do experience summer storms I feel qualified enough to write about this topic!
If you live in Baltimore or any other city/town in Maryland, then you know that the rainy season there can even cause serious flooding. To help prevent water damage to your home or business, it’s important to take the time to properly prepare your rain gutters for summer storms. Fortunately, preparing your rain gutters for summer storms is a relatively easy and inexpensive proposition. By taking a few simple steps now, you can help ensure that your gutters will do their job when the next storm hits. Keep reading for some tips on how to prepare your rain gutters for the storms that may just surprise you this summer.
Inspect your gutters and downspouts
It's important to inspect your gutters and downspouts before the storm season begins. Look for any cracks, holes, or other damage. If you find any damage, make sure to repair it before the storms hit.
Check for clogs
Gutters can easily become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris. When they become clogged, they can't effectively channel water away from your roof and siding. To prevent this, regularly clean your gutters and downspouts.
Make sure your gutters are in good condition
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If your gutters are in poor condition, they're more likely to fail when you need them the most. So, make sure to inspect them regularly and repair any damage that you find.
Install Gutter Guards
Gutter guards can help keep your gutters from becoming clogged. They also help to prevent leaves and other debris from entering your gutters in the first place. It's a good idea to install gutter guards if you live in an area with a lot of trees.
Trim Tree Branches
If you have trees near your house, make sure to trim any branches that hang over your gutters. These branches can fall during a storm and damage your gutters, which will make them less effective at channeling water away from your roof.
Make sure your gutters are properly attached
Your gutters should be properly attached to your roof. If they're not, they could come loose during a storm and cause damage to your home. We highly recommend that you make sure they're properly attached before the storm season begins so that you don't have to worry about them coming loose during a storm.
Clear the area around your gutters
Make sure to clear any debris, such as leaves and twigs, from the area around your gutters. This will help ensure that water can flow freely into your gutters and downspouts. As a result, your gutters will be more effective at channeling water away from your roof and siding.
Add extensions to your downspouts
Downspout extensions can help to ensure that water is directed away from your foundation. This is particularly important if you live in an area that is prone to flooding.
Consider installing a gutter protection system
If you want the ultimate in gutter protection, consider installing a gutter protection system. These systems can help to keep your gutters clean and free of debris, and they also prevent leaves and other debris from entering your gutters in the first place.
Work with a professional
If you're not comfortable working on your gutters, or if you don't have the time to do it yourself, consider working with a professional. A professional can help you properly prepare your gutters for the summer storm season. Many people often make the mistake of doing everything themselves without taking the time to learn about the proper way to do it. This can often lead to more problems down the road. Therefore, we highly recommend working with a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. While it may cost you more money upfront, it will save you money in the long run.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your rain gutters are ready for summer storms. If you have any questions, or if you need help preparing your gutters for the storm season, and you live on the East Coast, anywhere including South Carolina and north, please contact Ned Stevens. They will be happy to help you make sure your gutters are ready for whatever the summer weather brings. So let the rain begin!
